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Hillman publishes book on sexuality and aging

February 27, 2013

Hillman publishes book on sexuality and aging

Jennifer Hillman, professor of psychology at Penn State Berks, recently published a book titled “Sexuality and Aging: Clinical Perspectives” by Springer Publishing. According to Hillman, “There are two primary stereotypes of sexuality and aging. One is found in the prowling cougars and elder Romeos of TV and film. The other is lonely, ill, depressed, and above all, sexless. The truth mainly lies between these extremes, reflecting a diversity of experience and behaviors to match a growing and dynamic senior population.”

This publication assembles the most up-to-date information on the spectrum of middle-aged and older people’s sex-related concerns, from HIV to ED, from body image problems to dating after 50. This timely volume equips professionals to answer questions more accurately and help clients navigate the multiple changes and challenges that accompany aging. In-depth analysis, empirical findings, and case studies offer a clear picture of what clinicians can expect as the baby-boom population grows older. Hillman also provides helpful advice for clinicians seeking a comfort level for discussing sexual matters in practice.

Included in the book are an overview of sexuality among middle-aged and older adults, including historical issues and current research methodologies; specific chapters focusing upon men’s and women’s concerns; the impact of prescription and over-the-counter medicines on sexual function; sexuality in the contexts of disability, dementia, and long-term care; the increasing prevalence of HIV, AIDS, and other STIs among adults over 50; LGBT issues; cross-cultural perspectives; and sexuality and end-of-life issues.

In addition to holding the position of professor of psychology at Penn State Berks, Hillman is a licensed psychologist in the state of Pennsylvania. Her primary research interests include HIV/AIDS and other STDs in aging, Viagra and other PDE-5 inhibitors, sexual and aggressive problem behaviors in long-term care, women’s issues in aging, and grandparents of children with autism. She has published more than two dozen peer-reviewed articles and four books, and was awarded Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America for her outstanding contributions to the field of aging. Hillman also received a Penn State University Teaching Fellow Award, and teaches courses in clinical, abnormal, health, and social psychology, as well as adult development and aging.